Pool under blue sky

The Selwyn District Council has taken a significant step in honouring its commitment to the community by finalising an agreement to transfer ownership of the Sheffield Memorial Pool to the Tāwera Community Trust. This milestone marks the successful outcome of a collaborative process that began with public consultation during the Long-Term Plan 2024–2034.

The signing of the agreement follows an extensive consultation process with the local community and wider district, which included 181 submissions and 15 oral presentations with 95% in support of transitioning the asset.

“On the 16th of April, Council made a clear commitment to listen and act on what the community told us,” says Denise Kidd, Executive Director, Community Services and Facilities.

“The signing of this agreement is a direct result of that promise. We’re pleased to support the transition of the pool back into community hands, where it belongs.”

The Council initially requested feedback on a proposal to close the pool in the Long-Term Plan consultation. After listening to submissions and public hearing presentations to the Council by Malvern residents, the Council agreed to keep the facility open for the 2024–2025 swim season and explore options for community ownership, so long as a new owner was a legal entity separate to Council and could be identified by 30 June 2025.

The Tāwera Community Trust was established as a legal entity to take over the pool’s ownership and operations.

“Members of the Tāwera Community Trust and the wider Sheffield, Waddington and Springfield communities are delighted to be able to secure the future of this wonderful memorial pool within the community,” says a spokesperson for the Tāwera Community Trust.

The Council will work together with the Tāwera Community Trust to finalise the transfer. Once the agreement is finalised the Tāwera Community Trust will take over the ownership, operation, and maintenance of the local swimming facility.

This transition reflects the Council’s ongoing commitment to empowering communities and responding to the needs of its communities.

Last modified: 03 Jul 2025 10:00am